Firstly, Kalms Night is a small, white, film-coated tablet taken before bed. So each tablet carries a dry extract of valerian root at a sleep-focused dose. In particular, the tablets are a THR-registered traditional herbal medicine (THR 01074/0229). Furthermore, they are made in the UK by G.R. Lane Health Products Ltd (Lanes Health).
What THR means, in plain English
THR stands for Traditional Herbal Registration. So a THR product is not a fully licensed medicine. However, it has been reviewed by the MHRA for quality and safety. In particular, its use is based on 30 or more years of traditional use, not on modern clinical trials. As a result, THR products can only claim traditional use, not proven cures.
How Kalms Night differs from Kalms Day
Kalms Night is a sleep-focused product. In contrast, Kalms Day is a daytime option for mild anxiety and stress. So the two products carry different herb doses tuned for different times of day. In particular, Kalms Night has a much higher valerian dose (96mg per tablet) and no hops. Furthermore, the bedtime-only dosing pattern makes Kalms Night a genuine sleep product, not a daytime calmer.
Pack sizes available
Kalms Night tablets come in several bottle sizes. So the choice depends on how long you plan to trial the product. In particular, 50 or 56 tablets suits a short trial (around 12 to 14 nights at 4 tablets a night). Furthermore, 100 tablets covers a full 25 nights, and 200 tablets suits ongoing occasional use across two months.
Key features and details
Format: small, white, circular, film-coated tablets, taken with water.
Pack options: 50, 56, 100, or 200 tablets in bottles.
Active ingredient: 96mg dry extract of Valeriana officinalis L. root per tablet (equivalent to 384 to 480mg of raw plant material).
Legal status: Traditional Herbal Registration (THR 01074/0229).
For: adults 18 and over.
Dose: 4 tablets 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. Extra 4 tablets can be taken earlier in the evening if needed.
Duration: use for 2 to 4 weeks. Speak to a doctor if sleep has not improved after 4 weeks.
Storage: below 25°C, in the original bottle, out of direct sunlight.
NOT for: anyone under 18, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or use alongside sedative medicines.
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Kalms Night tablets, a traditional valerian tablet taken before bed
Kalms Night tablets are a traditional herbal medicine used for the temporary relief of sleep disturbances. So they are a self-care option for the odd rough week of poor sleep, not a long-term sleeping tablet. Furthermore, each tablet carries 96mg of dry extract from valerian root, which is a much higher valerian dose than the daytime Kalms Day product. As a result, this is the sleep-focused option in the Kalms range.
When to see a doctor rather than self-treat with Kalms Night
Kalms Night is for mild, short-lived sleep problems. So some situations need proper medical review, not a herbal tablet at bedtime:
Sleep problems lasting more than 4 weeks despite Kalms Night.
Loud snoring, gasping in sleep, or morning headaches (possible sleep apnoea).
Restless legs, kicking, or vivid limb movements at night.
Waking with breathlessness, chest pain, or palpitations.
Ongoing low mood, hopelessness, or thoughts of self-harm.
Sleep problems in anyone under 18 (Kalms Night is only for adults).
Sleep problems in pregnancy or breastfeeding (Kalms Night is not for these).
Sleep problems with heavy alcohol use (needs different support).
For life-threatening symptoms, call 999. For urgent but non-emergency worries, call NHS 111 or your GP. In particular, if you have thoughts of self-harm, call Samaritans on 116 123 (free, any time).
Five key takeaways about Kalms Night tablets
Kalms Night is a traditional herbal medicine used for temporary relief of sleep disturbances, based on long-standing use.
Each tablet carries 96mg of dry extract from valerian root (equivalent to 384 to 480mg of raw plant material).
The dose is 4 tablets 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime, with an option of another 4 earlier in the evening if needed.
Kalms Night is for adults only (18 and over). So it is not for children, teenagers under 18, pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
Use for 2 to 4 weeks. Speak to your GP if sleep has not improved after 4 weeks.
What is Kalms Night: overview
Kalms Night is a UK traditional herbal medicine made by G.R. Lane Health Products Ltd (Lanes Health).
It carries one plant extract: valerian root, at 96mg dry extract per tablet.
It is used for temporary relief of sleep disturbances, based on long-standing traditional use.
It is not a licensed medicine. So its claims are based on traditional use, not modern clinical trials.
A brief history
Kalms tablets have been sold in UK pharmacies for many decades. So the brand is one of the longest-established herbal options in the country. In particular, valerian root is one of the oldest recorded herbal sleep aids in European tradition. Furthermore, Lanes Health still makes the tablets in the UK today.
The THR scheme, in plain English
The Traditional Herbal Registration scheme was set up by the MHRA in 2011. So it gives UK consumers a way to know a herbal product has been reviewed for quality and safety. In particular, every THR product carries a unique THR number on the pack. Furthermore, the scheme lets you spot a proper regulated herbal medicine among the many unregulated supplements on the market.
What THR claims can (and can’t) say
THR products can say “traditionally used for…” based on 30 or more years of continuous use. However, they cannot make modern efficacy claims (no “clinically proven” wording, no “cures insomnia” language). So Kalms Night is described as a traditional remedy for sleep disturbance, not a proven insomnia treatment.
Why choose Courier Pharmacy for your Kalms Night tablets
Registered, independent, and patient-led
Courier Pharmacy is a UK-registered independent pharmacy regulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC 9010051). So when you buy Kalms Night through us, you get a proper pharmacy team, not a warehouse. Furthermore, our independence means we can take time on sleep questions where a large chain often cannot.
Prescriber-led sleep and mental health context
At Courier Pharmacy, we take sleep and mental health questions seriously. In particular, our Superintendent Pharmacist Shazlee Ahsan is an Independent Prescriber. So if a herbal option is not the right pick for your sleep problem, we can steer you toward the right kind of help. Furthermore, we can flag when the situation needs a GP referral rather than another tablet.
Dr Ada Jex-Cori, our brand pharmacist
Our brand pharmacist is Dr Ada Jex-Cori. She represents the spirit of what we do. Named for Ada Lovelace, Sophia Jex-Blake, and Gerty Cori, she stands for evidence-led, unafraid-of-questions medicine. Her message runs through everything we advise:
You’re not broken. The system is. We’re here to change that.
For anyone who has been told to “just try a warm drink and go to bed earlier” while genuinely struggling with sleep, this matters. So we want to help you find the right level of support, whether that’s a herbal option, sleep-hygiene advice, or a GP referral for a proper assessment.
Coordinated advice with your other medicines
If you take prescribed medicines (particularly antidepressants, sleeping tablets, or painkillers with sedative effects), we can flag concerns about mixing them with a herbal sedative. So the interaction check is included, not an afterthought. In particular, the valerian in Kalms Night can add to the effect of some prescription sedatives.
Care that keeps showing up
Sleep problems often come and go. So we’re here for the follow-up questions along the way: adjusting your approach if Kalms Night doesn’t suit, discussing when to try CBT for insomnia (CBT-i), or flagging when a GP referral would matter more.
Buy Kalms Night Tablets from Courier Pharmacy
Kalms Night tablets are a traditional herbal medicine (THR), available without prescription at courierpharmacy.co.uk. So supply is straightforward. Furthermore, our pharmacy team still reviews every sale as part of our routine check.
If Kalms Night isn’t right for you
If our team thinks a different approach fits your situation better, we’ll explain why and suggest the next best option. So this might mean:
Kalms Night One-A-Night (a higher-dose one-tablet version).
Kalms Day if the main issue is daytime anxiety rather than nighttime sleep.
Kalms Lavender One-A-Day if you’d rather try a lavender-based option.
Nytol Herbal or Sleepeaze Herbal for a different herbal sleep option.
A pharmacy sleep aid such as Nytol (diphenhydramine) or Sominex for short-term sedating antihistamine use.
A GP referral for CBT-i (cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia), the first-line NHS treatment for long-term sleep problems.
A sleep clinic referral if sleep apnoea, restless legs, or another sleep disorder is likely.
Above all, we won’t sell you a herbal tablet that isn’t right for your situation. In short, honest guidance matters more than making the sale.
Active ingredient in Kalms Night tablets
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis L.) root
Each tablet contains 96mg of dry extract from valerian root, equivalent to 384 to 480mg of the raw plant material. So this is a much higher valerian dose than the 26mg used in Kalms Day. In particular, valerian root is one of the oldest recorded herbal sleep aids in European tradition. Furthermore, it is the sole active ingredient in Kalms Night, without hops or any other herb alongside.
Other ingredients
Kalms Night tablets also contain film-coating ingredients (which give the tablet its smooth white outer layer) and standard tablet excipients. So the exact excipient list is on the current pack label and PIL. In particular, people with sugar sensitivity, lactose intolerance, or specific colouring intolerances should check the pack before buying.
What are Kalms Night tablets for?
Kalms Night is a traditional herbal medicine used for the temporary relief of sleep disturbances. So it is a self-care option for short-lived sleep problems. In particular, it is helpful in several common situations:
Occasional rough nights
Life throws in the odd bad night. So Kalms Night is used by many adults for the "I know I need to sleep tonight" evenings before an important day. In particular, this could be the night before a job interview, a family event, or a big deadline.
Short runs of poor sleep
A stressful week or a change in routine can throw off sleep for several nights running. So Kalms Night is used as a short-course tablet to help reset the pattern.
Jet lag or shift-work recovery
Time-zone changes and shift changes disrupt sleep for days or weeks. So Kalms Night is used by some people to help rebuild a regular bedtime after travel or a rota change.
Where Kalms Night is not the right choice
However, some situations need a doctor, not a herbal tablet:
Insomnia lasting more than 4 weeks (needs GP review and CBT-i).
Loud snoring, gasping, or witnessed pauses in breathing (possible sleep apnoea).
Restless legs syndrome (needs specific medical treatment).
Sleep problems with depression (needs full mental health assessment).
Sleep problems in anyone under 18 (needs age-appropriate input).
Sleep problems in pregnancy or breastfeeding (Kalms Night is not for these).
How do Kalms Night tablets work?
Kalms Night is a traditional herbal medicine. So the mechanism of valerian root is based on long-standing use and early research, not on the modern trial evidence used for licensed sleeping tablets. In particular, five main pathways have been proposed for valerian in sleep.
Valerian and GABA activity
Valerian root contains compounds (valerenic acid, valepotriates) that appear to act on the brain's GABA system. So GABA is the main "calming" chemical messenger in the brain. Furthermore, valerian compounds may bind to GABA-A receptors or slow the breakdown of GABA in the brain. As a result, valerian may support a gentle sedative effect through the same pathway that some prescription sleeping tablets use, but with a much milder action.
Adenosine receptor activity
Valerian compounds also appear to interact with adenosine receptors in the brain. So adenosine is one of the natural chemical signals that builds up during waking hours and triggers sleep pressure at night. In particular, this may help explain why valerian works better as regular use builds up over 2 to 4 weeks, rather than as a single-dose knock-out.
Reduced sleep-onset time
The best-studied traditional use for valerian is helping people fall asleep faster. So valerian may shorten sleep-onset latency by a modest amount. In particular, a Cochrane review of valerian for sleep found a modest effect on subjective sleep quality, though the trials were of variable quality.
Why the sleep-focused dose is much higher than Kalms Day
Kalms Night contains 96mg of valerian dry extract per tablet, at 4 tablets a night. So the total valerian dose is roughly 384mg per night. In contrast, Kalms Day gives 26mg valerian per tablet at 6 tablets a day (156mg per day). Furthermore, the difference reflects the different purpose. In short, a daytime calm needs a gentle dose, while a bedtime sleep aid needs enough valerian to produce a genuine sedative effect.
Why the effect builds over 2 to 4 weeks
Valerian is not a fast-acting knock-out sedative. So the effect on sleep usually builds over several nights of regular use, rather than showing up on the first night. In particular, this is why the PIL suggests a 2 to 4 week trial period. Furthermore, if sleep has not improved by 4 weeks, another approach is likely needed.
How to take Kalms Night Tablets
The basic pattern
Adults 18 and over: 4 tablets, 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime, with water.
Take at the same time each evening for a consistent effect.
Extra 4 tablets can be taken earlier in the evening if needed.
Use continuously for 2 to 4 weeks. Speak to a doctor if sleep has not improved after 4 weeks.
Getting the timing right
Take the dose 30 to 60 minutes before you plan to be asleep. So a 10pm bedtime means a 9pm to 9:30pm dose. In particular, take Kalms Night after any hot drinks and after the last screen use of the evening, so the sedative effect isn't wasted on late-evening activity.
Driving and machinery
Kalms Night can cause drowsiness and dizziness. So take care if you might need to drive or use machinery the next morning, especially in the first few days. In particular, do not drive if affected. Furthermore, do not drink alcohol while taking Kalms Night, as the combined sedative effect can be stronger and longer than expected.
Sleep hygiene alongside Kalms Night
Herbal sleep tablets work best alongside good sleep habits. So keep a regular bedtime, avoid caffeine after midday, keep the bedroom cool and dark, and put screens away 30 minutes before bed. In particular, Kalms Night is not a substitute for these basics.
Storage
Store below 25°C.
Keep the bottle tightly closed after each use.
Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
Do not use after the expiry date on the pack.
Treatment dosage Kalms Night Tablets
The standard adult dose
Adults 18 and over: take 4 tablets with water, 30 to 60 minutes before you plan to go to bed. So plan the dose around your bedtime, not around a fixed clock time. In particular, if you go to bed later some nights, shift the dose to match.
If sleep still doesn't come
The PIL allows an extra 4 tablets earlier in the evening if needed. So the total across the evening can reach 8 tablets. However, do not take a second dose after bedtime dose, and never exceed the PIL guidance. In particular, if 8 tablets across the evening still isn't enough, another approach is needed.
How long each pack lasts
At 4 tablets a night, a 50-tablet bottle lasts about 12 nights. Furthermore, a 100-tablet bottle lasts about 25 nights. In particular, a 200-tablet bottle lasts about 50 nights, which suits occasional-use households across two months.
If a dose is missed
If you forget to take Kalms Night at bedtime, skip that night. However, do not take a double dose the next evening to catch up. So the dose stays at 4 tablets on any single night.
When to stop and see your GP
Stop Kalms Night and see your GP if:
Sleep has not improved after 4 weeks of daily use.
Sleep has got worse or you have vivid nightmares that don't settle.
You develop signs of sleep apnoea (loud snoring, gasping, morning headaches).
You feel low, hopeless, or think about self-harm.
Warnings and precautions for Kalms Night tablets
Review at 4 weeks
If sleep has not improved after 4 weeks of daily Kalms Night use, speak to your doctor. So ongoing sleep problems often need CBT for insomnia (CBT-i) or a proper sleep clinic assessment. In particular, do not keep taking Kalms Night past 4 weeks without a proper review.
Not for anyone under 18
Kalms Night is only for adults aged 18 and over. So a child or teenager with sleep problems needs a GP or age-appropriate assessment.
Not in pregnancy or breastfeeding
Kalms Night should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. So the safety data for valerian during pregnancy is limited.
Alcohol
Do not drink alcohol while taking Kalms Night. In particular, alcohol adds to the sedative effect of valerian. So the combined effect can be stronger and longer than either alone. Furthermore, alcohol also disrupts sleep quality, which works against what Kalms Night is trying to do.
Sedative medicines and other anxiety or sleep medicines
Do not take Kalms Night alongside sleeping tablets, other sedatives, strong painkillers with codeine or morphine, or benzodiazepines (diazepam, lorazepam, zopiclone). Furthermore, do not take Kalms Night alongside other medicines prescribed for stress or anxiety. So the combined sedative effect can be stronger than intended. In particular, ask a pharmacist if you are on any of these.
Depression and mental health
Kalms Night is not for depression or anxiety disorders. So if poor sleep sits alongside low mood, hopelessness, or panic, see your GP for a proper mental health assessment.
Liver problems
Valerian is metabolised by the liver. So people with liver disease should ask their doctor before taking Kalms Night.
Driving next morning
Kalms Night may cause drowsiness that carries into the next morning. So take care with early morning driving, especially if you have to be up soon after the tablet has kicked in.
Side effects of Kalms Night tablets
Kalms Night is generally well tolerated at the recommended dose. So most people take it without any problem. However, the PIL lists several effects worth knowing about:
Reported effects
Nausea
Vomiting
Abdominal cramps or abdominal pain.
Diarrhoea
Dizziness
Headache
Vivid dreams or nightmares.
If side effects occur
Most side effects settle within the first week. However, if nausea or stomach upset persists, take Kalms Night with a small snack rather than on an empty stomach. In particular, if vivid dreams or nightmares are severe or don't settle, stop Kalms Night and speak to a pharmacist or your GP.
Rare but important
Severe allergic reaction (facial swelling, breathing difficulty, widespread rash).
Signs of liver dysfunction (yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, right-sided abdominal pain).
New or worsening low mood.
When to stop and get help
Stop Kalms Night and get medical help if you develop signs of a severe allergic reaction, signs of liver problems, or new low mood. So for life-threatening symptoms, call 999.
Yellow Card scheme: report any suspected side effects via https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk or the Yellow Card app. Reporting helps make medicines safer for everyone.
Interactions with other medicines
Alcohol
Do not drink alcohol while taking Kalms Night. So the combined sedative effect can be stronger and longer than expected. In particular, this includes wine, beer, and spirits.
Prescription sedatives and sleeping tablets
Do not take Kalms Night alongside benzodiazepines (diazepam, lorazepam), Z-drugs (zopiclone, zolpidem), sleeping tablets, or strong painkillers with opioids. So the combined sedative effect can be too strong.
Other stress, anxiety, or sleep medicines
The PIL is explicit: do not take Kalms Night alongside other medicines prescribed for stress or anxiety. So ask a pharmacist or GP if you are on anything for anxiety, depression, or sleep.
Antidepressants
Some antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, mirtazapine, tricyclics) can add to the sedating effect of valerian. So ask a pharmacist or GP before combining Kalms Night with your antidepressant. In particular, mirtazapine and tricyclics are already sedating in their own right.
Antihistamines
Older sedating antihistamines (diphenhydramine, chlorphenamine, promethazine) can add to Kalms Night's effect. So combining them may cause much more drowsiness than either alone. In particular, this includes Nytol (diphenhydramine) and Sominex.
Anaesthesia
Tell your anaesthetist if you take Kalms Night before any planned surgery or dental procedure with anaesthetic. So the anaesthetist may want you to stop Kalms Night a few days before.
Frequently asked questions about Kalms Night tablets
What's in Kalms Night?
Each tablet contains 96mg of dry extract of valerian root. So valerian is the sole active herb in Kalms Night, without hops or any other plant.
What's the difference between Kalms Night and Kalms Day?
Kalms Night is for temporary sleep disturbances. In contrast, Kalms Day is for temporary mild anxiety and stress. So the two products use different herb doses tuned for different times of day. Furthermore, Kalms Night has a much higher valerian dose (96mg vs 26mg per tablet) and no hops.
What's the difference between Kalms Night and Kalms Night One-A-Night?
Both are THR-registered valerian sleep tablets from Lanes. However, Kalms Night One-A-Night is a higher-strength single-tablet version taken once at bedtime. So it suits people who prefer to swallow one tablet rather than four.
How quickly does Kalms Night work?
Some people notice an effect on the first few nights. However, most people need 2 to 4 weeks of regular use before the full effect is clear. In particular, valerian is not a fast-acting knock-out sedative.
Can I take Kalms Night every night?
Yes, for up to 4 weeks. However, if sleep has not improved by then, speak to your GP. In particular, ongoing insomnia usually needs CBT for insomnia (CBT-i) or a proper sleep assessment.
Can I drive the morning after Kalms Night?
For most people, yes. However, Kalms Night can cause next-day drowsiness in some. So take care if you have to be up early. In particular, do not drive if affected.
Can I take Kalms Night with alcohol?
No. Alcohol adds to the sedative effect of valerian. So the combined effect can be stronger and longer than expected. Furthermore, alcohol disrupts sleep quality, which works against what Kalms Night is doing.
Is Kalms Night habit-forming?
Kalms Night is not thought to cause dependence in the way that prescription sleeping tablets such as zopiclone can. However, if you feel you need Kalms Night for weeks at a time to sleep, see your GP.
Can I take Kalms Night with my antidepressant?
Not without asking a pharmacist or GP first. So valerian can add to the sedating effect of some antidepressants. In particular, this matters for mirtazapine, tricyclics, and SSRIs at higher doses.
Can I take Kalms Night during pregnancy?
No. Kalms Night is not for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. So if sleep is a problem during pregnancy, see your GP or midwife.
Can teenagers take Kalms Night?
No. Kalms Night is for adults 18 and over only. So a teenager with sleep problems needs a GP or age-appropriate assessment.
Can I take Kalms Night for jet lag?
Some people find Kalms Night helpful for rebuilding a regular bedtime after travel. However, the effect builds over several nights, so it is not a same-night jet-lag fix. In particular, melatonin (prescription-only in the UK) is a more targeted jet-lag option to discuss with a GP.
Can I take Kalms Night with paracetamol or ibuprofen?
Yes. Paracetamol, ibuprofen, and other non-opioid painkillers do not interact with Kalms Night. So these are the safe pain-relief options while on Kalms Night.
Can I take Kalms Night with Nytol or Sominex?
No. Sedating antihistamines (Nytol contains diphenhydramine, Sominex contains promethazine) add to the sedative effect of valerian. So combining them may cause much more drowsiness than either alone.
Which pack size should I choose?
It depends on how long you plan to trial Kalms Night. So 50 or 56 tablets suits a short trial (around 12 to 14 nights). Furthermore, a 100-tablet bottle covers a full 25 nights, and 200 tablets suits occasional-use households across two months.
What if I still can't sleep after 4 weeks?
See your GP. So ongoing insomnia usually needs CBT for insomnia (CBT-i), a proper sleep clinic assessment, or both. In particular, do not just keep taking Kalms Night past the 4-week mark without a review.
Does Kalms Night cause vivid dreams?
Yes, vivid dreams and nightmares are on the PIL side-effect list. However, most people find these settle within the first week. In particular, if they are severe or persistent, stop and see a pharmacist or GP.
Does Kalms Night help with sleep apnoea?
No. Sleep apnoea needs proper medical diagnosis and treatment (usually a CPAP machine). So if you snore loudly, gasp in your sleep, or wake with morning headaches, see your GP for a sleep assessment.
When to move beyond a herbal tablet
Sleep problems that last more than 4 weeks, get worse, or stop you working or driving safely need more than a herbal tablet. So our team can help you sort the next steps: NHS talking therapy referral for CBT-i, a GP appointment for a proper assessment, or a sleep clinic referral if sleep apnoea or restless legs looks likely. In particular, we can also flag when a physical cause (thyroid, iron, hormonal changes) may be behind the sleep problem.
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: This information is for education only and isn't a substitute for personal medical advice. Always follow your prescriber's instructions.
